1 minute read
o Antisocial Personality Disorder
portrayed Lecter with a gleeful malevolence that managed to chill even Hannibal’s creator, Thomas Harris (McIntyre 32). There is such serenity in Lecter’s character when he slaughtered the two prison guards in Silence of the Lambs, which displays the PTSD symptom quite clearly. Even a serial killer must be suffering from some sort of disturbance to have that level of emotional detachment (Frechin).50
ANTISOCIAL PERSONALITY DISORDER
Advertisement
Hannibal Lecter portrays several behavioral patterns that indicate he is suffering from a psychological condition. An in-depth analysis of his behavior implies that he meets the criteria set for a person suffering from an extreme case of Antisocial Personality Disorder51, also referred to as ASPD. It is a mental problem characterized by a ‘defined disregard’ for what is regarded as right or wrong (Thomas & Pope, 2012). In addition, the patient fails to respect the rights and feelings of others. (Nolen-Hoeksema,2011). People suffering from this disorder tend to manipulate, provoke, and treat others with callousness. In addition, they express no remorse or culpability for their actions.
People suffering from Antisocial Personality Disorder fail to conform to social norms. As a result, they engage in repeated crimes, which lead to constant arrests. Hannibal is portrayed as a prisoner found guilty of murder and cannibalism (Saxon, Utt & Bozman, 1991).
Lack of Remorse
While committing crimes, Hannibal does not show any signs of remorse (Harris, 1991). In his conversations, he shows signs of extreme arrogance. Hannibal uses these antics to instill fear in his victims and intimidate those around him (Saxon et al., 1991).
explains Mayra Mendez, Ph.D, LMFT, a licensed psychotherapist and program coordinator at Providence Saint John's Child and Family Development Center. 50 “Hannibal: A Method behind His Madness? – Visionary Archive.” Hannibalvisionsarchive.wordpress.com, hannibalvisionsarchive.wordpress.com/2010/03/12/hannibal-a-method-behind-hismadness/amp/. 51 Antisocial Personality Disorder is a complex form of mental illness. It is associated with spontaneous and reckless criminal tendencies. If not well managed, the problem affects both the patient and those around them
